dempers

Dempers, or dampers in English, are devices that dissipate energy from moving systems to reduce vibrations and control motion. They convert kinetic energy into heat or other forms of energy, helping to stabilize structures, protect components, and improve comfort or precision. The spelling "dempers" is commonly used in Dutch and Afrikaans, while "dampers" is standard in English.

Common types include viscous dampers (hydraulic or pneumatic), friction dampers, and magnetic or eddy current dampers. Viscous dampers use fluid resisting motion; friction dampers rely on sliding contact between surfaces; eddy current dampers employ magnetic fields to resist motion without contact. Active dampers use sensors and controllers to apply counteracting forces.

Applications range from automotive suspensions and aircraft landing gear to civil engineering and consumer products. In skyscrapers and bridges, dampers such as tuned mass dampers, viscous dampers, or base isolators reduce wind- and seismic-induced vibrations. In machines and electronics, dampers limit operational vibration and noise; in doors and cabinet lids, dampers slow closing to prevent slamming.

Design considerations include damping coefficient, natural frequency, damping ratio, and the intended range of motion. The goal is to achieve sufficient energy dissipation without overly dampening response. Factors such as temperature, wear, maintenance, space, and cost affect selection. Some dampers are passive, while others are active or semi-active, adjusting stiffness or damping in real time.

History shows that dampers emerged in mechanical shock absorbers and vibration-control devices in the 19th and early 20th centuries, with later innovations such as tuned mass dampers and advanced materials expanding the technology into modern engineering and consumer products.